First-Gen Student Finds Family and Comfort at UMKC

Myles Hardy is making more connections than ever at their second home

At UMKC, students write their own stories, form their own definitions of success and chart innovative career paths. Myles is a psychology major who is finding their home away from home by participating in organizations including First Gen Roos and Professional Career Escalators.

Myles Hardy
Anticipated graduation year: 2027
UMKC degree program: Psychology

Hometown: Springfield, Missouri

Hardy has always looked for connections outside the box. After picking UMKC and arriving on campus, they realized they made the right choice. Hardy said UMKC allowed them to express themselves like they haven't before and find new communities with opportunities around the corner.

Why did you choose UMKC?

I knew that staying around my hometown wasn't for me as there wasn't much of a community there. People there aren't as open-minded and tend to follow the same kind of career track. If their dad was a doctor, then that's what they would do. I just wanted to go somewhere else and start new.

Why did you pick psychology as your field?

I knew I wanted to help people. I thought about being a doctor, but I didn't think I would work well with medical materials. I am very interested in the way people think and how different events in life can affect the way we think, how we are different and the way we interact with each other.

What do you like the most about UMKC?

The people I've met genuinely want me to succeed. They want to prep us for our future, and don't give up. It's more than just my professors, the success coaches and program organizers at UMKC are always there for you. It's very motivating.

How is UMKC preparing you for a career that you want?

UMKC as a whole, especially in the psychology department, has so many connections that you can find. Whether it's through professors, program organizers or even campus career events, there are a lot of outlets for bigger career opportunities.

Do you plan on pursuing a graduate degree?

Yes, I do. I would love to do it at UMKC.

How does it feel being a first-gen student at UMKC?

Before I got here, I was extremely stressed. It was a lot of pressure. But through the First Gen Roo program, they did a great job of comforting me without making me feel like I had to fit in a certain way or live up to specific expectations. I also noticed that other universities don't really talk about first-generation students or really give them an opportunity to feel not only welcomed, but celebrated. That's a big thing the First Gen Roo program does very well.

In addition to First Gen Roo, I'm in the Honors Program, Professional Career Escalators and I'm involved in the Peer Academic Leadership (PAL) program as well, prepping to be a pal next year. I'm also involved with the Neurodivergent Student Union and UMKC Trans+.

What have you learned about yourself since being at UMKC?

My strengths. I would say I've definitely blossomed since coming to UMKC. I was a very introverted person when I was in Springfield and in high school. I didn't like what I was doing at all. I wasn't having fun. But being here, I feel that I have a track. I'm doing things, I'm involved and I'm interacting with people I truly connect with. It has really helped me grow in many areas.

Would you recommend UMKC to prospective students?

Yes, I would. I would recommend it because I don't think you can find this kind of joy and family feeling anywhere else at other universities. I think that's what makes UMKC so special.

What's your favorite place to study on campus?

I really like the library when it's cold. But now that it's warmer, I like the Quad more. I'm really glad they have the lounge chairs out there too. It's super chill and perfect with the shade.

What is something you wished more people would know about UMKC?

I wish people knew more about the family feel of UMKC. I think that's hard to see from an outside perspective. If you're just looking in, you don't get to feel it. But there is such a strong emphasis on community, and you will find your group of people at some point.

What is something you are looking forward to?

Becoming a leader. I always want to take on more opportunities, even though I already have a full schedule as is. But next year, I'm going to be in the PAL program and I'm really excited for it. I want to talk and help people. I think that is something that's really important, not only as a first-gen student, but as a UMKC student. Nobody is going to be exactly like you or be on the same exact track. Everyone is different and special in that aspect. There are many ways to be a leader but doing it your own way is something to be really proud of.